Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats

Fun Facts, Urban Legends, And Busted Myths!

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

The characteristics of Maine Coon cats are shrouded with an aura of mystery.

There is something fascinating and mysterious about the Maine Coon cat. This breed of cat is known for its impressive size and unique physical characteristics.

"In a nutshell, what is it like to have Maine Coon cats as pets?"

Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats - Friend or Foe?

Perhaps it's because of their rugged appearance or formidable size that Maine Coon Cats are often perceived as being a "rough and tumble" sort of cat.

It is assumed that a Maine Coon will necessarily be a skilled hunter, have an innate need to be outdoors (being wild and all) and actually have a vicious streak toward people!

It's time to bust these myths! Nothing could be further from the truth. According to The Cat Fanciers Association's breed description, a Maine Coon cat should have "an essentially amiable disposition." What does this mean? Well, a breed description, for any breed, could be thought of as a list of requirements.

So, a purebred Maine Coon is actually required to have a disposition, or temperament, that is amiable!

Here are some synonyms of amiable: friendly, social, good-natured, agreeable, affable, cordial, kind, likeable, genial, and good-humored.

Yes, these are accurate descriptions of the wonderful and gentle Maine Coon cat personality.

Characteristics of Maine Coon Cats -
Tales, Fables, and Urban Legends

When describing a Maine Coon cat, an owner will sometimes remark "He is a great hunter, catching many birds/animals/small deer etc." (ok, I'm kidding about the deer!) or, "She loves to go outside, only coming in at night."

Some folks are under the impression that hunting prowess and a general "tough" nature are indicators that they have a "real" Maine Coon.

And from time to time a mysterious Coon story is told. It usually sounds something like this: "I once knew a huge Maine Coon cat. He/she was such a skilled hunter, and had a crazy streak, randomly attacking family members. You had to watch your back"

These are nothing more than tall tales. Having an aggressive cat is not a sign that it's a Maine Coon.

Perhaps this alleged cat did exist. But very unlikely was it a purebred, well-bred or well-raised Maine Coon cat. And most certainly it was not any kind of example of what this breed is all about!

Truth be told, all pet cats like to go outdoors. All like to chase birds and chipmunks, and any cat will do these things if you let them outside.

Nowadays, a Maine Coon cat breeder will make sure you understand the dangers of letting cats outside, and ask you to keep your Maine Coon in the house, for his or her own health and safety.

The Ultimate Family Pet!

Simply put, there is not a mean bone in the body of a Maine Coon cat. Their impressive size and "rough" appearance totally belie their super-gentle personality. Once you get to know the personality characteristics of Maine Coon cats, there is just no going back!

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